A pearle for a prince, or a princely pearle As it was deliuered in two sermons, by Iohn Traske.

A PEARLE For a Prince . MARKE . 16.16 .

He that beleeueth and is Baptized , shall bee saued , but hee that beleeueth not , shall be damned .

THis Chapter containeth three principall parts . In the first wee haue the resurrection of our blessed Sauiour witnessed by women , by an Angell , by three seuerall apparitions : In the second wee haue the Apostles Mission in their great Ambassage ; In the third Christs glorious Ascension into Heauen . In the second part there are foure principall point● obseruable . First , To whom the Apostles were sent . Secondly , What to doe . Thirdly , The effects of their labour . Fourthly , The signes that should follow in those that did beleeue . The two first are contained in the fifteenth verse . The last in the seuenteenth and eighteenth . The third is my text . Where wee see the twofold effect of preaching laied downe in two Propositions : The first containing a Promise , the second a Threat . In the promise we may obserue two things : First , to whom it is made ? Secondly , what it is ? As if it should haue said in more wordes thus , Hee ( that is ) whosoeuer , bee he , Iew or Graecian , young or olde , bond or free , rich or poore , man or woman that beleeueth ( that is ) that vnderstandeth , and vnderstanding assenteth to , and assenting , applieth to himselfe the message that you bring , and is baptized , ( that is ) that doth manifest the truth of his faith by the vse of the meanes for the confirmation of the same , or doth obserue conscionably those things that I command ( Baptisme being a part for the whole ) or is indeed ( not onely with outward water ) baptized into the name of the Father , the Sonne and the Holy Ghost , is truely baptized by the new birth of the water of regeneration , and the renewing of the Holy Ghost , is made conformable to his death , and doth know him , and the power of his resurrection , and the fellowship of his sufferings . Such bee they , of what nation , condition , sex , or age soeuer : shall bee saued , that is , shall assuredly receiue all the good things that doe concerne soule and bodie , this life , and that which is to come ; Grace heere , and Glorie hereafter . And thus the instructions doe naturally arise . First , from that the promise is made indefinitely , to euery one : hee that beleeueth . The doctrine is ,

Doct. 1 That all the Priuiledges and Promises that appertaine to beleeuers , doe indifferently stretch to euery one aswell as to any one . The truth of this may appeare by many testimonies of Scripture , of which sort are these following : a a Io. 1.12 . But as many as receiued him , to them gaue hee the priuiledge to become the sonnes of God , euen to as many as beleeued in his name . And b b Io. 3.16 . So God loued the world , that hee gaue his onely begotten Sonne , that whosoeuer beleeueth in him , should not perish , but haue euerlasting life . In the first , you see , as many as , twise repeated : in the later , whosoeuer , which extendeth to all .

The reason is , to shew Gods equalitie and his impartiall dealing with the sonnes of men : which Peter tooke notice of , where he said : c c Act. 10.34 . Of a truth , I perceiue that God is no accepter of persons , but in euerie nation , such as feare him , and worke righteousnesse , are accepted with him .

Seeing then that the promises of God doe belong to all , aswell as to any beleeuer : Wee may learne , to be d d Ephes. 5.1 followers of God , as deare children .

The Magistrate may hence learne , to iudge impartially , to execute iudgement , without respect of persons , to deale vprightly , betweene the rich , and poore , the bond , and free . Hereby hee shall draw e e Iam. 4 8 neere to God , and be most like him : he is no respecter of persons , he not onely offereth , but bestoweth saluation vpon all sorts indifferently . Let such call to minde that worthy example of good Iehosaphat , who said to the Iudges , * * 2. Chron. 169. Take heede what you doe : for you iudge not for man , but for the Lord , who is with you in the Iudgement : Wherefore now let the feare of the Lord bee vpon you , take heed and doe it , for there is no iniquitie with the Lord our God , nor respect of Persons , nor taking of gifts .

The Minister hath hence an Instruction to inuite all to the Supper of the Lambe . Christ sayth , Mat. 11.28 Io. 7.37 Come vnto me all yet that trauell , and are heauie laden . And againe , If any man thirst , let him come vnto mee and drinke . Reuel. 22.17 . And the Spirit and the Bride say . Come And let him that is athirst , come . And let him that heareth , say , Come . And whosoeuer will , Isay 55.1 let him take the water of Life , freely . So Isaiah , Ho , euery one that thirsteth , come yee to the waters . Iam. 2.1

All may learne , not to haue the Faith of our Lord Iesus Christ , the Lord of Glorie , with respect of Persons . Secondly , this reproueth the practise of those Magistrates , that regard mens persons in iudgement , fauouring some for their riches , and oppressing others that are but of mean estate . Herein they differ from God , and do manifestly discouer themselues not yet to be his .

Also such Ministers are reproued as flatter the rich , and fawne vpon the mightie , but scorne the weake , and despise the poore . These swarme in all parts where the Gospell is preached : Not onely amongst those of Babels side , but also euen here amongst vs . Yea those that are so conuersant about Touch not , Taste not , Handle not , these that would bee reformers of others , are herein most irreformed themselues . Oh , fearefull is the condition of such : surely the Lord neuer sent them ; or if they say he did , they must proue it , by that they haue such a commission , as Christ himselfe neuer had . He professeth himselfe to be sent a a Isay 61.1 to the poore : and hee reioyceth , that b b Mat. 11.5 The poore receiued the Gospell : c c verse 25 that babes vnderstood that which the rich and wise were ignorant of . d d Io. 7.49 . The people of least esteeme were his chiefe followers .

Here also by this , are discouered the darke courses of such as , dare impudently to affirme , that women haue no soules : and that seruants , are of no esteeme with God ; or that children , shall bee damned . Albeit the very naming such things , is grieuous to an honest heart : yet wee will a little touch these , for satisfaction of any poore ignorant soule . Such might read of e e 1. Pet. 3.5.6 Sara , that she is termed a holy woman , yea , the mother of faithfull women : Of Priscilla , famous for knowledge and practise , for f f Act. 18.26 . knowledge , able to instruct learned Apollos , for g g Ro. 16.3 practise , readie to lay downe her life for Paul . There is also an elect Ladie , and her elect Sister , & many other women , whose names are registred in the Booke of Life .

For seruants , besides the Apostles mention of seruants , where he writeth to none but Saints , Onesimus being a seruant , Phile. 16. hath such a title giuen him , as no reprobate euer had

As for children , it is euident also in the Gospell , by our Sauiours behauiour toward them , his speeches of them , Mar. 9.36 Act. 2.38 his promises to them and such as they are ; that it is without controuersie , Heb. 8.11 they are within the Couenant , and the promise extends euen as farre as them also .

To conclude this point , Paul professeth himselfe , A debter both to Greekes , Rom. 1.14 and to the Barbarians , both to the wise , and to the vnwise . And the Holy Ghost hath testified , that in Christ there is neyther Iew , Col. 3.11 nor Greeke , circumcision nor vncircumcision , Barbarian , Scithian , bond nor free : but Christ is all , and in all .

Lastly , this serueth for the comfort of all that eyther desire Christ , or alreadie haue obtained the possession of him . It is as a shield , for the one , and a great incouragement , for the other , when Satan shall labour to discourage , or affright . Desirest thou to come to Christ ? and doth Satan tell thee , it belongeth not to thee , and that because of thy nation , age , or condition ? Thou maist boldly tell him , that God inuites all , therefore thee , aswell as another .

Art thou in Christ ? and would Satan cause thee to doubt of any thing that concernes the life to come , or distrust for this life ? Thou maiest boldly say , The promises runne indifferently to all beleeuers : Thou art a beleeuer : therefore to thee .

Thus hauing concluded the first point , That the promi●es of God doe stretch to euery beleeuer as well as to any , Wee see in the next place from the restraint , Hee that beleeueth :

Doct. 2 That the Promises of God doe extend to none but those that are beleeuers . So we see in the forecited Scriptures . Io. 1.12 But as manie as receiued him , to them gaue he the right to become the sonnes of God . To them , and to none but them . Ro. 1.16 So also in another place , The Gospell of Christ , is the Power of God vnto saluation , Io. 3.16 . to euery one that beleeueth . And , So God loued the World , that hee gaue his onely begotten sonne , that whosoeuer beleeueth in him , should not perish , but haue euerlasting Life .

Whosoeuer , is the extent : Whosoeuer beleeueth , the restraint .

The reason hereof is , Without Faith it is impossible to please God . In Christ alone , Heb. 11.6 Mat. 3.17 God is well pleased . Hence it was , that Paul spake such excellent things of Faith , and so highly prized it , Phil. 3.8 Thus hee esteemed all things but doung , that hee might winne Christ , and bee found in him , Verse 9 not hauing his owne righteousnesse , which was of the Law , but the righteousnesse which is of Faith . And hence it is , Heb. 11.101 . that Faith hath so excellent titles and effects mentioned in holy Scripture .

Seeing then that the promises of God are restrained onely to beleeuers : As thou desirest comfort by the promises of God , so must thou bee diligent in this search or inquisition . Neyther is it any ground of Comfort , that a man say , I haue Faith : or , I doe beleeue : as many presumptuously affirme . For some there are that beleeue the Scriptures , to bee true . Iam. 2.19 The Deuils doe this , and more , they tremble . And it were fearefull to affirme , that they haue right to the promises of God . Yea , it may bee , these haue attained such outward reformation , that they are readie to censure all that are not so forward , of Profanenesse , and all that are more forward , of singularitie . These promise to themselues , that Abraham is their Father . There they doe begin , as did those that were taxed for it by Iohn Baptist . Luc. 3.8 . Of such beleeuers , I doe not speake . For the difference betweene such and Infidels , is but this : Infidels not beleeuing at all , are sure of condemnation : and these beleeuing as they doe , Luc. 12.48 . of a greater condemnation .

Therefore not standing on the definition of Faith , we will rather consider of the ground where it is sowen , and of the companions that it hath . The ground wher Faith is sowen , is an humbled soule , a wounded spirit . Isay 66.2 Iam. 4 6. or rent heart ; to such God giueth the grace of Faith , as are so prepared for it ; Mat. 5.6 Zach. 12.10.13.1 such as hunger and thirst for it ; such as mourne for it , to such , and to none but such , doth hee open a fountaine for sinne , and for vncleannesse . Hereby then thou maist examine thy selfe : Hast thou sought to God with feare and trembling , Act. 16.19 . Act. 2.37 as the Iailor did ? Hast thou come with a pricked Conscience and cried , What must I doe to be saued ? Mat. 9.12 Mat. 11.28 Hast thou felt thy soule sick with sinne ? Hast thou beene pressed downe with the burden thereof ? Hath thine heart melted within thee , and thine eyes gusht out with tea●es , for thy sinnes ?

This wounded spirit , this sicke soule , this rent heart , this burdened Conscience , this is indeed the ground where GOD doth sow Righteousnesse , Hos. 10.12 . Psa. 126.5 . this is the man that shall reape in Mercie . They onely that thus sowin teares , shall reape inioy .

Thus much of the ground where Faith is sowen . Now of the companions that it hath ; of these there are verie many , of which I will name some , especially those which are inseparable , or peculiar to true beleeuers .

The first which I will name , is peace : That Peace which passeth all vnderstanding . Rom. 5.1 . Phil 4.7 . This may bee illustrated by a quiet calme , after a great tempest , or a swo●●e sleepe , after a sharp sit of an ague .

The second is Ioy. Rom. 14.17 Rom. 15.13 1. Pet. 1.8 . The Ioy of the Holy Ghost . This is that which Peter calleth , Ioy vnspeakeable and full of glorie . This doth swallow all other ioyes , euen as the Sea doth swallow all other waters . This may be illustrated by safetie , after great danger , or by great plentie , after much penurie or want .

Gal. 5.6 . 1. Tim. 1.5 . Mat. 12.37 . The third is Loue out of a pure Heart . This extendeth to God , to our Neighbour .

This Loue is expressed by our pliablenesse to doe his will , 1. Io. 5.3 . For this is the loue of God , that wee keepe his Commandements , and his Commaundements are not grieuous .

To our Neighbours , To all ; but especially to the houshold of Faith . Gal. 6.10 . 1. Pet. 1.22 1. Io. 3.16 . To Gods children : This Loue is feruent : yea so feruent , as that wee can lay downe our liues for them . Mat. 5.44.45.46.47.48 . This Loue stretcheth euen to Enemies . This can no Reprobate euer haue .

A fourth may be boldnes : To confesse Christ before men . Prou. 18.1 . The righteous are bold as a Lion . Ro. 10.10 . Dan. 3.17.18 . Dan. 6.10 . Act. 21.13 . Act. 4.19.20 . Heb. 11.37 . Rom. 5.3 . Heb. 10.36 . Rom. 8.17 . Iam. 5.11 . He. 12.1.2 . Phil. 1.23 . This is an inseperable companion of true Faith . This was in Daniel , in the three children , in Paul , in the other Apostles , in all the blessed Saints who haue died for the testimonie of Iesus .

A fifth Patience to beare the Crosse , to endure tribulation , to suffer with Christ . This was euident in Iob , who is therefore proposed to beleeuers as a Patterne therof . But our perfect patterne is Christ Iesus , who endured the Crosse .

A sixth , a desire to bee euer with the Lord , to see him face to face . 2. Cor. 5.2 . An earnest groaning to bee clothed vpon with our house , which is from Heauen , to be vnburthened of this bodie of death , Rom. 8.13 . and that as God is become the Father of our spirits , so he would become the Father of bodies and spirits , That our vile bodies may bee changed , Phil. 3.21 . and fashioned like vnto the glorious bodie of our Lord Iesus Christ .

A seuenth , is a holy waiting for the time of our dissolution , which may be termed Hope , Rom. 8.24.25 . Iob. 14.14 . and is so called by the Holy Ghost : We are saued by hope : and If wee hope for that we see not , we doe with patience wait for it

These are the Companions of true sauing Faith , & within the compasse of one of these all the rest may be couched .

Hereby thou maist trie thy selfe . Hast thou beene troubled , and terrified with the sight of thy sinnes ? Isay 57.19 . Is. 61.1.2.3 Mat. 5.4 . 1. Tim. 1.13 . Psal. 119.103 . Mat. 10.42 Psal. 16.3 . 1. Io. 5.1 . And art thou now at Peace ? Hast thou mourned ? And dost thou reioyce ? Hast thou hated God in his Word , in his Prophets , or poore children ? And dost thou delight in his Law , receiue his Prophets , because they are his Prophets ; delight in the Saints , because they are his children ?

Hast thou bin greedie of reuenge , ●nd readie to requite euill with euill ? And dost thou loue thine enemies , blesse them that curse thee , Mat. 5.44 . doe good to them that hate thee , pray for them which despightfully vse thee , & persecute thee ? Rom. 12.21 In a word , canst thou now desire , to ouercome their euill with good ?

Hast thou blushed to be seene at a Sermon , or reading the word , or in the companie of the poore Saints , or hast thou withdrawne thy selfe from the performance of any dutie for feare of persecution ? Act. 21.13 . Act. 5. ●9 . H●st. 4.16 . And dost thou now resolue to doe whatsoeuer God commands , and to suffer for not doing , that which he forbids ?

Hast thou beene impatient in crosses and readie to murmure ? and art thou now able with alacritie to heare any thing , especially for the name of Christ ?

Hast thou feared death , and trembled at the time of dissolution ? And is the day of death ( now in thy esteeme ) better then the day that thou wast borne ? Eccles. 7.1 . dost thou long for it , Act. 3.19 . and thirst after it , as for the time of refreshing ? A●● ●5 . 18 . Hast thou foolishly desired the day of the Lord in thy desperate passions ? And canst thou now wait with Patience for the time of thy dissolution ? Then maist thou take comfort to thy soule , that all the promises of God doe belong to thee , be thy nation , estate , s●x , or age , what it will . But if thou find no such change , but that thou art the same thou wert euer , as thou wast borne , so thou hast liued , and excepting a little swimming knowledge in thy braine , and colde performance of outward duties , thou findest no such singular thing ? Mat. 5 47. Doe not then deceiue thy selfe , thou art not that beleeuer , of the which I speake : to whom the promises d●e belong .

Now hauing an eye to the text , againe we will see what more will arise . Hee that beleeueth , and to baptized .

Not to speake her● , of the substance of Baptisme , which is chiefly aimed at : but of the signe , which is also included . Though the former might wel serue for the confutation of Papist , who ascribe as much to the signe , as to the truth : most foolishly affirming , that those that die without the signe , 〈◊〉 ● . 1. Cor. 1 2. 〈…〉 . 1 . 3● . 〈…〉 5 . 2●.2 . are dam●ed as also of the Anabaptist , who d●nie children the signe , though they can by no meanes denie them the substance : for that were to crosse the whole Booke of God . Both these doting too much vpon the bare letter and order of the words ; whereby they shew their Ignorance of the Scriptures , Mat. 22.19 Isay 65.23 . & of the power and loue of God to his and their seed : but leauing this at this time , seeing Faith and Baptisme are ioyned together . Hence I doe collect this point of instruction :

Doct. 3 That true Faith , and the diligent vse of the meanes for confirmation thereof , are inseperable .

Wheresoeuer the one is in truth , there is also the other . This may appeare by that the Apostle writing to the Saints , at Colossa : and hauing prooued vnto them their effectuall calling , he willeth them , as the a a Col. 3.11.12 . Elect of God , to put on the bowels of tender mercie , kindnesse , humblenesse of minde , long suffering : as if hee would say , Because yee are the Elect of God , therefore put on these things : for those that are the Elect of God , cannot after their effectuall calling , bee seperate from these . So againe the same Apostle writing to those at Thessalonica , bids them not sleepe as others , but b b 1. Thes. 5.7 . to watch and bee sober : for God hath not appointed you to wrath , ( saith hee ) but to obtaine saluation by Iesus Christ . As if he should say , Those that God hath ordained to eternall life , they watch , they are sober .

So writing to c c Phil. 1.6 . Philippi , and being confident of their saluation , hee yet presseth them to obedience , and d d Phil. 2.12 to worke out their owne saluation with feare and trembling .

And Peter also hauing prooued the truth of the regeneration of those Saints , to whom hee writeth , presseth them to e e 1. Pet. 2.2 desire the sincere milke of the word , that they might grow thereby .

The reasons of this may be many : but I will onely vrge one , which is this , That whereby our assurance is made knowne vnto vs , the knowledge of it doth not take away , but establish . But it is made knowne vnto vs , by the vse of the meanes for the increase thereof : Therefore the knowledge of Gods assured loue doth not take away , but establish the vse of the meanes . So that it remaines firme , That true faith and outward obedience can be no more separated , then the light and the Sunne , or heat and the fire . This being so , it may helpe to stop Satans mouth in his Instruments , who will not sticke to call in question , the truth of the doctrine of Predestination , and of the assurance of the sauour of God , in this life . For say they , If this be true , that God hath predestinated vs to the obtaining of eternall life , doe what euill we can , we shall be saued ; or if we are predestinated to death , doe what good we can , we must be damned . These suppose they haue reasoned wisely , this wisedome being so pleasing to the flesh . They neuer consider that Scriptures are plaine against them , clearely shewing vs , that hee that ordained to the end , ordained to the meanes whereby the end is attained . As the Apostle plainely sheweth , where he saith , Wee are bound to giue thankes alway to God for you , 2. The. 2.13 brethren , beloued of the Lord , because God hath from the beginning chosen you to saluation , through sanctification of the Spirit , and beleefe of the Truth . And againe , As manie as were ordained to eternall life , A●t. 13.18 . beleeued .

Neyther doe such wretches consider , into what blasphemie they breake , by questioning the truth , because their carnall reason cann●t reach it . But if they would but hearken to arguments drawne from their reas●n , it might serue to conui●ce them . They will graunt , if a man will goe a iourney , hee must goe the way that leadeth to the end of that iourney ; If he will be warme in Winter , he must make vse of the fire , of wa●me clothes , or some bodily exercise : if then they bee so wise in things of this life , why should they not vnderstand this also ? That hee that ordained men for glorie , 2. Thes. 4.3 . Willed also then holynesse here , created them to good workes , redeemed them , Lu. 1 68.75 that they might serue him without feare in holinesse and righteou●nesse before him all the dayes of their life , ●●t. 2.14 . that they should be zealous of good workes , called them not to vncleannesse , but to holinesse . 1. The● . 4.7 . 1. Pet. 1.1 . And as Peter saith , He elected them to obedience .

As for example : God decreed , and told Rebecca so : Gen. 25.23 That Esau should serue Iacob . Yet hee also decreed , that Rebecca should vse the meanes for Iacobs escape , G●● . 27.43 from his brothers rage .

He had decreed that Paul should witnesse at Rome , and told him so : Act. 23.11 . Yet he also decreed , that he should vse the meanes by his sisters sonne , to the chiefe captaine , 〈◊〉 17. for to escape the cruell vowe of the Iewes .

He decreed that not one o● those should be lost , which were with Paul in the ship . Act. ●7 24.31 . Yet hee also decreed , that the meanes should be vsed for their escape . Hee decreed to bestow many things on his people : Eze. 36.37 . but he also decreed , they should pray for them .

And surely , those that remaine obstinate , affirming , that if we may be assured neuer to fall away , then wee may commit sinne , and liue how we will , may haue their mouthes stopped iustly with this ; namely , That it is euident , they neuer were assured of the fauour of God , and so consequently , Ephes. 2.12 . they are yet without , and are meere strangers to the life of God , and aliens to the Commonwealth of Israel . For such as haue this Faith , or this assurance of the Loue of God , Heb. 12.28 . haue also a delight in the Law of God , a desire to hold it fast , by seruing God with reuerence and godly feare , and doe know , that they that are iustified , are also sanctified : and that they that are Christs , Gal. 5.24 . haue crucified the flesh with the lustes thereof .

Let this teach all those that haue assurance , to labour for the increase thereof , and to striue vnto perfection in knowledge , Heb. 6.1 . 2. Cor. 7.1 . and perfection in holinesse , and not alwayes to looke to bee fed with milke . For as knowledge doth increase , so doth faith increase , and as faith increaseth , so obedience increaseth . There is no standing at a stay , or sitting idlely here , Psa. 128.1 . 1. Cor. 9.24 . 2. Tim. 4.7 . it is a walke , and must be gone ; a race , and must be runne ; a combate , and must be fought .

Euery plant that is planted here , must flourish more and more . Psal. 92.12 . Ioh. 15.2.3 . Reuel. 2.19 . Euery branch must bring forth more fruit . The last workes of beleeuers must be more then the first .

This may bee as a s●urre to such as are almost settled on the ●ees of security , such as formerly haue beene forward in hearing , and now are almost carelesse whether they heare or no , and such as haue bene much in prayer , and meditati●n : such as haue desired conference with Ministers & Saints . But now they are growne almost cold in all these . Oh let such take heed whither they are falling , and labour to recouer themselues speedily , lest their lamps goe out , Mat. 15.1.2.3.4 . and they be to seeke of oyle when the Bridegroome comes .

Lastly , this doth plainely discouer such as scoffe at the outside , and are enemies to hearing , prayer , conference and such like , that ( say they what they wil ) they doe not yet beleeue , because wheresoeuer Faith is ( I meane alwaies true Faith ) there is outward obedience , and a willing submission to the ordinances of God for the increase of the same .

Now if wee looke againe to the Text , we shall find another Doctrine from these words , he that beleeueth , & is baptized . For seeing ( as before hath beene proued ) that outward obedience and inward truth are inseparable , and seeing the promises are made not to one alone , but to both , if they may bee had : and that here is meant not so much the outward signe , as the truth of Baptisme :

Doct. 4 Hence wee may gather this Doctrine , That the signe without the thing signified , the outward shew without the inward truth , is of no value . Rom. 2.28.29 . So we read , He is not a Iew which is a Iew without , neyther is that Circumcision , which is outward in the flesh : But he is a Iew , which is one inwardly , which Circumcision is that of the heart , in the spirit , and not in the letter , whose prayse is not of man , but of God . Jer. 4.4 . And Ieremie willeth those that before were circumcised , To circumcise themselues to the Lord . E●● . 44.9 . So Ez●chiel , No stranger vncircumcised in heart , nor vncircumcised in flesh , sh●ll enter into my Sanctuary . So that here , those that are vncircumcised in heart , are excluded out of the true Sanctuarie , and are accounted strangers .

The reason is , God desireth truth in the inward parts , he requireth the heart : Psal. 51.6 . Pro. 23.26 . Hee iudgeth not the affection by the action , as Man : but the Action by the affection , 2 Cor. 8.12 . as God . Seeing it is so , that shewes without substances , will not serue turne : let this teach vs to make cleane the inside first , to giue our hearts vnto the Lord , to labour for truth in the inward parts : Let vs labor for approbation with God , and prayse with him . This is that which will cheere our soules , and comfort our spirits , and make vs truely merrie , when wee can say , If I regard wickednesse in my heart , Psa. 66.18 . the Lord will not heare me ; but God hath heard mee .

This reprooues such as slatter themselues with the outward performance of duties . If they be baptized ( as they say ) & bring their children to outward Baptisme ; If they assemble themselues outwardly to the hearing of the word , the receiuing of the Lords Supper ; If by their good Memories they bee able to beare in mind the Doctrines deliuered , and repeate them to their Families , shew much loue to Ministers , kindnesse to professors , such as they themselues are , though in the mean while they feele no Peace with God , or Ioy in the Holy Ghost : yet here they rest , and doe esteeme themselues of the best sort of beleeuers Albeit a man may doe all this , and be damned .

Were there not formerly , That could say , The Temple of the Lord , Ier. 7.4 . The Temple of the Lord , The Temple of the Lord , are these ? and others that could say , Isay 65.5 . Stand by thy selfe , come not neere mee ; for I am holier then thou .

Were there not that appeared before the Lord , Is. 1.11.15 . with a multitude of Sacrifices , and store of long Prayers , stretching out their hands euen like vnto the children of God ?

Were there not that fasted , and hung downe their heads like a Bulrush for a day ? Isay 58.5 .

Rom. 2.17 . Verse 18. Were there not that did rest in the law , and were called Iewes , and made their boast of God , Verse 19. and knew his will , and approued the things that were more excellent , being instructed out of the Law , being also confident that they themselues were guides of the blind , Verse ●0 . lights of them which were in darknes , instructers of the foolish , teachers of babes , hauing the forme of knowledge , and of truth in the Law .

And yet these holy ones ( as they thought themselues ) were threatned vengeance for their hypocrisie . They were they that trusted in lying words & counterfeit shewes , a smoak they were in Gods nose , abhorred and accursed in all their courses . They were they that caused the Name of God to bee blasphemed , euen in their fasts , finding their owne pleasures , and exacting all their labours , fasting for strife and debate , and to smite with the fist of wickednesse , as those Scriptures do manifest . Luk. 13.24 . Mat. 25.11.12 . Mat. 7.21.22.23 . Are there not some that shall seeke to enter , and not get in : that shall crie earnestly , and knocke aloud , and bee sent away : that shall be able to say , they haue cast out deuils , and done many great workes , and yet reiected ? 2. Tim. 3.5 . Are there not others , that haue the forme of godlinesse , and yet must be separated from ? what shal we say to this then ?

Surely as we beganne : It is not the signe , but the thing signified ; not the shew , Mat. 23.25 . Luk. 11.39 . but the substance ; not the making cleane of the outside , but the inside ; not the forme , but the power of godlines that is auaileable .

Now neuer could our Sauiour more iustly say in his time : Woe be to Scribes , & Pharises Hyp●crites ▪ then we may at this day say the like of outside Christians ( if I m●y so say ) I doe not meane those onely that are openly prophane , whose sinnes are written in their forheads : but those especially , that haue a strict outside of godlinesse .

Col. 2.21 . England doth swarme with Pharisees : such as are conu●rsant about Touch not , Tast not , 2. Pet. 2. Handle no● . Such as hauing voluntarie humilitie , and pretended sinceritie , doe despise gouernment , and speake euill of dignities . Presumptuous they are , and selfe-willed , and speaking euill of the things they vnderstand not , they creep into houses , 2. Tim. 3. and lead captiue silly women laden with sinnes , ledde away with diuers lusts , and as Iannes and Iambres withstood Moses , so doe these men resist the Truth , men of corrupt minds , of no Iudgement concerning the Faith . These are they that take aduantage of weake consciences , ceazing on them as their own , by cumbring them with outward things , and by telling them , here is Christ , M●● . 24.23 26. or there is Christ ; when if the truth were knowne , they neuer yet had Christ themselues : yet hereby they draw Disciples after them , and therehence suck they no small aduantage . Of such I dare say , that notwithstanding their outward flourish , Mal. 21.31 yet Publicans and Harlots shall enter into the Kingdome of GOD before them . Yea , that open prophane ones are sooner drawne to sinceritie , Pro. 26.12 . then these , and apter to receiue instruction . So wise are they in their owne eyes , Pro. 30.12 . and prudent in their own sight , that there is more hope of Fooles then of them ; yea , Ier. 5.26.27.28 . that there is more humanitie and greater loue amongst those whom they terme profane , then amongst themselues .

Here let none so forget the former Doctrine , to mistake me , as if I did oppose my selfe against all outward shew . No , far be it from me , to thinke that the inside can be cleane , and the outside filthie : howsoeuer I say , there are a multitude of such as seeme to such as themselues are , to bee cleane without , who are notwithstanding foule within .

To conclude then , beginne to make cleane the inside , and then all is cleane . Get true faith , and outward obedience will certainly follow . But if thou get neuer so much of outward constitution as thou thinkest , and remaine foule within , Thy hatred being couered with deceit , shall certainly be discouered in the whole Congregation . Pro. 26.26 . Job 20.5.22.27 . And thus much of the first point , to whom the promise is made . Now wee are come to the promise it selfe ; Shall bee saued .

The promise is saluation , which containeth all the good things that concerne soule or bodie , this life or that to come , as it is written , 1. Tim. 4.8 . Godlinesse is profitable to all things , hauing promise of the life that now is , and of that which is to come . Psal. 84.11 . And , The Lord will giue grace and glory . Doct. 5 Hence ariseth this Doctrine , That all good things that doe concerne this Life , or that which is to come , are of right due to those that doe beleeue : or , That those that doe beleeue , and are indeed baptized , or made conformable to Christs death , and doe feele the power of his resurrection in themselues , such may challenge as their proper right , and claime as their heritage , all the good things that doe concerne this life , or that which is to come .

1. Cor. 3.21 . This the Apostle affirmeth plainely , where hee sayth , All things are yours , whether Paul , or Apollo , or Cephas , or the World , or life , or death , or things present , or things to come , all are yours , and yee are Christs , and Christ is Gods .

The reason is , God hath promised , and he cannot but performe . Deut. 32.4 . Tit. 1.2 . Hee is the God of Truth , Righteous in all his wayes : The God that cannot lie .

Another may be this , Hee hath giuen the greater , and cannot denie the lesser , as it is written , Rom. 8.32 . Hee that spared not his owne Sonne , but deliuered him vp for vs all : how shall hee not with him also freely giue vs all things ?

Will any man giue Gold , and denie Dust ? Will a man giue his Life , and denie his Goods ? or will a man giue goods , and not afford good lookes , nor a good word ?

The consideration of this may cheere vp the hearts of those that are beleeuers ; Esay 25.6 . Gen. 18.25 . Exod. 32.11.12 . Neh. 1.8.9 . Dan. 9.16.17.18.19 . Act. 4.24.29.30 . Heb. 13.8 . Isay 59.1 . here is a Feast for them of fat things , full of Marrow , of Wine on the Lees well refi●ed . So that beleeuers may challenge Gods promises as boldly , as euer Abraham , Moses , Nehemiah , Daniel , The Church in the Apostles time , or any of the Saints euer did . The Lord is Iehouah , the same for euer : His hand is not shortned , that it cannot saue , neyther his eare heauie , that it cannot heare .

Dost thou then want wisedome ? Thou maist aske it of God . Prou. 2.6.7 . Hee is the giuer of wisedome , out of his mouth commeth knowledge and vnderstanding . He layeth vp wisedome for the Righteous . Here you see , God setteth forth himselfe as his childrens treasurer . 1. Kin. 3.9 . Salomon asked wisedome and was not denied . And Iames extendeth this to all the Saints : Iam. 1.5.6 . If any of you lacke wisedome , let him aske of God , that giueth to all men liberally , and vpbraideth not ; and it shall bee giuen him .

Pro. 3.33 . Pro. 10.22 . Psal. 112.3 . Dost thou want riches ? Thou hast the blessing of the Lord . This onely maketh rich . And it is written , That wealth and riches are in the house of him that feareth the Lord . Mat. 19.29 And it is also written , That whosoeuer forsaketh Houses , Mat. 10.30 . or Lands for Christs name sake , for the Gospels sake , or the Kingdome of God , Luk. 18.19 . shall receiue euen in this Life manifold , yea an hundred sold more , euen in this present time .

Mat. 10.30 Is it friends thou dost desire ? Thou hast the promise of Fathers , and Mothers , Brethren , Iam. 5.16 . Sisters , and Children . What greater friends then such ? The prayers of one of them being more auaileable for thee , then the power of a whole Kingdome against thee .

These will lay downe their liues for thee . Their loue is feruent loue . 1. Ioh. 3.16 . 1. Pet. 1.22 2. Sa. 20.17 Euen as was the loue of Ionathan to Dauid , Who loued him euen as his owne soule : And as the loue of Aquila and Priscilla to Paul , who were readie , and did in effect lay downe their own neckes for Pauls life . Rom. 16.4 . This is that wee finde written in the Prouerbs of Salomon . There is a friend that sticketh closer then a brother . Pro. 18.24 .

Is Honour desireable ? What more honourable , Ioh. 1.12 . Ps. 149. vlt. then of a sonne of a Mortall Man , to become the sonne of the Immortall God ? Such honour haue all the Saints . And who haue beene more honourable then the Children of God ? As Ioseph , Mardochey , Daniel , and the rest ?

Is safetie a good thing ? Isa. 54. vlt. This is thine heritage , and thou maist therefore claime it as thy proper right , as the seruants of God haue done . Psal. 91.4 . Let thy truth ( O Lord ) bee my shield and buckler .

Thy defence is , A wall of Fire , The munition of Rockes , A guard of Angels , Psal. 68.17 . Zach. 2.5 . Isay 33.16 . as Chariots of Fire , and Horses of Fire doth compasse thee round about .

Is Peace pleasant vnto thee ? Thy Habitation is Peaceable . They shall not hurt nor destroy in all mine holy Mountaine . Isay 6.9 . No Lion or rauenous beast doth walke in that way . Isay 35.8.9 Isay 9.6 . Nah. 1.15 . Thy Prince is a Prince of Peace : All those that are his Ambassadors , are glad tydings bringers . Thy owne feete are shod with the shooes of Peace : Ephe. 6.15 . Mat. 5.9 . All thy Companions are Peacemakers . God hath promised to extend Peace like a Riuer to those that dwell in Sion . Isay 66.12 .

Delightest thou in many followers or seruants , Psal. 91.11 . Psal. 34.7 . to wait on thy person ? God hath giuen his Angels charge of thee . The Angels doe encampe about thee wheresoeuer thou art : Heb. 1.14 . They are ministring Spirits , sent foorth for the good of them that shall be saued . And it is written , Mat. 18.10 Take heed that yee offend not one of these little ones that beleeue in me , saith Christ ; for I say vnto you , Their Angels doe alwayes behold the face of my Father which is in Heauen .

Is victorie ouer aduersaries a good thing ? Rom. 8 37. 1. Pet. 5.8 . Gal. 5.24 . 1 Ioh. 5 4. Beleeuers are more then Conquerors . By Faith the Deuill is resisted , the flesh crucified , and the World ouercome .

Is mirth desired by thee ? What greater ioy , Rom. 14.17 then the Ioy of the Holy Ghost ? This will make thee to eat thy bread with Ioy , and drinke thy wine with a merry heart , Eccles. 9.7 . when thou art once a beleeuer : for then , and not till then shalt thou know , that God accepteth thy workes . This ioy is termed , Ioy vnspeakeable , and full of glory . 2. Pet. 1.8 .

Is long life a blessing in thy Iudgement ? Thou hast a promise to liue long , Psal. 34.12.13.14 . Psal. 128.6 . Psal. 84.11 . and see good dayes , if thou be a beleeuer , yea , to see thy childrens children .

So that there is no good thing to bee withholden from beleeuers .

Let this not only comfort , but instruct thee against Sathans fierie assaults . Doth he perswade thee thou art foolish ? Thou maist replie , Christ is thy wisedome . 1. Cor. 1.30 . Doth he vpbraid thee with thy pouertie ? Answere him , Thou possessest all things , 2 Cor. 6.10 . Iam. 2.5 . and art able to make many rich .

Tels he thee , Thou art friendlesse ? Ephe. 2.19 . Mar. 10.30 1. Cor. 12.26 . Oppose against this , The promise of friends , as deare as Fathers , Mothers or Children : And that thou hast all the Saints in the World thy friends .

Doth he obiect ? That thou art base & despised ? Answere , It is a great , yea , 1. Io. 3.1 . the greatest honour , to be a child of God .

Doth he affright thee with danger ? 2. Kin. 6.16 . 1. Chron. 32 7.8 . Tel ●im . Thou hast more with thee then against hee .

Would hee amaze thee with many troubles ? Phil. 4.7 . Io. 14.27 . Io. 10.33 . Rom. 8.28 . Say , That thou hast Peace within , that cheeres thee , and that trouble without shall not hurt thee : All things working together for good to them that feare and loue God .

Would he haue it grieue thee , that thou art not waited on as others are ? Ioh. 5.22.23 . Hos. 2.18 . Hest. 6.11 . Da. 6.18.23 Thou maist tell him , that Angels are thy seruants , and all the Creatures are at thy command : yea , Kings shall stoop to thee , if it be good for thee .

Would he make thee doubt of an ouerthrow in any doubtfull combate ? 2. Cor. 10 4. Rom. 8.38 . Thou art now sure of the conquest .

Is it a sorrowfull thing ( saith he ) to be a beleeuer ? Isay 51.11 . Thou now well knowest , that here is abundance of ioy .

Would hee seare thee with sodaine death ? Phil. 1.21 . Christ is with thee to liue , and to die is gaine . But thou hast the promise of length of dayes , Ephes. 6.2.3 if it shall bee good for thee .

Thus which way soeuer Satan seeketh to wind in his poysoned sting , or to throw in his fierie dart , thou hast armor to defend thy selfe .

Yea for thy further instruction know that if the contrarie to these bee good for thee at any time , thou shalt be sure of the same . As for sharpnesse of wisedome , thou maist haue dulnesse of spirit , for a time to humble thee : For riches , thou shalt haue pouertie to instruct thee : For friends , Enemies to stirre thee to prayer : For honour , disgrace to purge thee : For safetie , thou maist seeme to bee in danger , to trie thy boldnesse : For Peace thou shalt haue trouble , to exercise thy Patience : For attendants , thou shalt haue desolation to worke contentation in all estates .

For victorie , thou shalt haue some foiles , to proue thy constancie :

For Ioy , thou shalt haue Sorrow , to encrease thy thankefulnesse , when Ioy shall returne and to make thee temperate :

For long life , thou shalt haue a speedie death , to free thee from miserie , and to bring thee to Glorie . Neyther is this all ; Heb. 11.13 . but we may looke further yet ; Beleeuers can see a far off : They see things to come , as if they were present , not so much looking at temporall , as eternall things . 2. Cor. 4.18 .

And this is that which doth put life into the soules of beleeuers , when they consider of their estate at the resurrection of the iust . Would it not comfort a man that were in a doubtfull combate in the Iudgement of others , if he were himselfe sure of victorie ; or one that were in Prison , though streightly kept , if hee were sure of freedome after a few dayes ?

And verily such is our condition ; though we are scorned , persecuted , slandered , imprisoned , buffeted , slaine , here : yet it is a righteous thing with God to recompence tribulation to them that trouble his , 2. The. 1.6.7 and to those that are troubled , rest .

That is , God hath promised , and hee will performe his promise of certaine deliuerance , to them that are his . Wherfore such may challenge this issue , as of right to them appertaining . It is our heritage , Christ hath purchased this for vs , as well as the rest , and we shall assuredly receiue it .

So that wee may lay claime to our right of comming gloriously at the last day , with the Iudge of the whole Earth , when he shall come in his owne glorie , Mat. 25.31 in his Fathers Glorie , and the glorie of his holy Angels . It is the right ( euen then ) of beleeuers , to bee caught vp , 1. Thes. 4.17 Mat. 13.43 . 2 Th. 1.8 9. and to meet Christ in the Aire , and to come gloriously , euen as so many bright Sunnes , to bee admired with him . And this is not all : for then shall we be as so manie Iudges , to iudge men and Angels , 2. Cor. 6.2 . when it shall bee said vnto them , Goe yee cursed , into the fire eternall , Mat. 25 41. prepared for the Deuill and his Angels . For so it is written , The Saints shall iudge the World . And againe in the same Chapter , The Saints shall iudge Angels . 1. Cor. 6.3 . And in an other place , Behold , the Lord commeth with ten thousands of his Saints , Iude 14.15 to execute iudgement vpon all , and to conuince all that are vngodly among them , of all their vngodly deeds , which they haue vngodlily committed , and of all the hard speeches which vngodly sinners haue spoken against him .

And yet this is not all : for after that , we shall be euer with the Lord , We shall be as the Angels in heauen , Mat 22.30 Reue. 2.10 . Matt. 5.12 . 2. Cor. 4.17 . Psal. 16.11 . we shall receiue that crowne of life , that great reward , that exceeding surpassing and eternall weight of Glorie , that fulnesse of Ioy , those pleasures at Gods right hand for euermore . This may we also challenge at Gods hands , by vertue of his promise in this Scripture which is the Text , and of Christs intercession in another , where it is thus written , Father , I will that they also whom thou hast giuen me , Io. 17.24 . bee with mee where I am , that they may behold my glorie which thou hast giuen me .

A man would thinke it were a good thing to bee a beleeuer , if all this bee true : and surely eyther this is true , or the Scriptures are false , which were blasphemie to say . Rom. 3.4 . Let God then be true , and euery man a lier .

And let the consideration of this stirre vp euery one to seek diligently for the fauour of GOD . Luk. 10.42 . Get this one necessary thing : Get Christ , and get all : In this life , Wisedome , Riches , Friendes , Honour , Safetie , Peace , Attendants , Victorie , Ioy , Long-life .

At the day of Iudgement , wee shall come gloriously and triumphantly , with the Iudge of the whole earth : Angels and Men shall tremble at our Glorie , and admire our excellencie . They that haue iudged vs , shall be iudged by vs . After the day of iudgement , wee shall possesse that Kingdome peaceably , into the which wee haue here entred violently , and for which we haue fought valiantly . We shall see God face to face : We shall haue knowledge without ignorance : Loue without Hatred : Ioy without Sorrow : Light without Darknesse : Beautie without Deformitie : Strength without weaknesse : Plentie without Want : Health without Sicknesse : Honour without Disgrace : Peace without Trouble : Courage without Feare : Safetie without Danger : Life without death : Al good without any euil . This is the heritage of the seruants of the Lord , Isay 54.17 . and their righteousnesse is of me , saith the Lord .

FINIS .